If you are interested in trying out to be a part of our mascot team please read the information below and contact Spirit Coordinator Michelle Chin at mchin2@gmu.edu.

SEASON COMMITMENTS AND REQUIREMENTS:

The Mason Patriot performs at all home Mason Basketball Games (men and women) and will travel to both Atlantic 10 Basketball Tournaments (expenses paid). If either team continues to play in the post-season in the NCAA, NIT or other post-season tournament, the Patriot will travel with the Spirit Squads to the site of competition. Additionally, the Patriot is asked to appear at several events on campus and throughout the community.

The Patriot may be asked to attend some cheer and/or dance team practices throughout the season. The Mascot team will also have the opportunity to attend Mascot camp for 4 days during the summer where they will receive training and game-day material to use throughout the season.

We will select more than one person to work as a Mascot Team. Games and appearances will be divided between the team members based on ability, performance, reliability and schedule/availability. There is a small compensation for public appearances.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR TRYOUTS:

Selection will be based on the following areas:

- Enthusiasm, showmanship and performance

- Physical fitness and the ability to wear the mascot costume and handle the rigorous physical demands during performances

- Work ethic, attitude and commitment (based on interviews)

Judging will be based on the following elements:

Prepared Skit:

The 60-90 second prepared skit should include music/voice overs, simple props and a plot or theme. Please make sure all material is appropriate for a game crowd, which includes spectators of all ages. No inappropriate or crude material will be accepted. Your music should be on a CD or your iPod. The Spirit Organization will provide the audio system for the tryout.

Improvisation:

Because one of the most important aspects of being the Mason Patriot is game day interaction, candidates will be asked to improv for approximately 2 minutes (the length of a basketball full media time-out). Both pre-recorded and pep band music will be played and candidates should be able to perform accordingly and interact with judges and current members of the Mason Spirit Teams.

Interview:

Candidates will be asked questions about their dedication to the position and program, their reasons for auditioning and overall confidence and presence. Strong candidates will have knowledge of Mason basketball game-day traditions.

All candidates will be notified of final results within 2 days of the April tryout. If necessary, a fall tryout will be held. This decision will be made at the conclusion of the spring tryout.